City of Stirling sells mayoral car at auction

A MERCEDES driven by former Stirling Mayor Giovanni Italiano has been sold at auction.

The City sold the Mercedes Benz car, which was purchased for $65,000 in 2015 for mayoral use, after incumbent mayor Mark Irwin chose to use his personal vehicle instead.

Cr Irwin made the decision following his election in October, telling Stirling Times at the time he hoped it would “clear the air” regarding the purchase that had been a source of criticism of the City.

The City declined to respond to questions about the sale price of the car.

Another $65,000 Mercedes was purchased for chief executive Stuart Jardine in 2015 and a City spokeswoman said it was in the process of replacing this as part of his contract but would not comment on the price and type of vehicle being sought.

“The new vehicle will be purchased in February 2018 in accordance with the City’s fleet management practice,” she said.

The City’s decision to purchase the two Mercedes was heavily criticised at the time, with former Premier Colin Barnett and former Local Government Minister Tony Simpson believing it was not appropriate transport for council officials.

According to the City, the vehicles had been chosen because they had less fuel emissions and fuel consumption and a better resale values than their previous cars.